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"I have sworn upon the alter of God eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man", said Thomas Jefferson in 1800, in a letter written to Dr. Benjamin Rush, and now inscribed for eternity upon the Jefferson Memorial for all to see. Thomas Jefferson is recognized as one of the founding fathers of the United States. Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence; he was a statesman, diplomat, Vice President and the third President of the United States. Thomas Jefferson was the last of a dying breed of Renaissance men, with accomplishments in philosophy, politics, architecture, science and writing.

The Architecture - With the urging and support of, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, a fitting tribute and memorial was finally completed in 1943, constructed on the banks of the Potomac River, overlooking the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC. Architect, John Russell Pope designed the Jefferson Memorial to compliment, and pay tribute to Jefferson’s love of neoclassical architecture, taking inspiration from the Roman Pantheon; Jefferson’s own home, the Monticello and Jefferson’s contribution to the design of the University of Virginia.

John Russell Pope designed a true Beau-Arts building, complete with a dome, portico and a colonnade of marble columns. The interior of the Jefferson Memorial houses a magnificent, 19-foot, bronze statue of Jefferson designed by sculptor, Rudulph Evans, of Jefferson standing, with his trademark, stately, imposing posture, looking towards the White House. Inscriptions from the Declaration of Independence, and other writings made by Jefferson during his long life, can be found inside the Memorial.

Tours - During the spring months, in March and April, the gorgeous, pink and white, Cherry Blossom Trees lining the Tidal Basin by the Jefferson Memorial, come into vibrant bloom, making it a popular destination for visitors. Tours of the Jefferson Memorial are offered frequently during the warmer months for visitors and school groups, who wish to learn more about the great statesman and thinker, Thomas Jefferson.

How to get to the Jefferson Memorial: Subway to Smithsonian Station (blue, orange lines)

Where is the Jefferson Memorial: At the south side of the Tidal Basin




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